Dyess C-130Js begin first overseas deployment

  • Published
  • By Airman Charles V. Rivezzo
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The first overseas operational deployment of Dyess's newest acquisitions are underway, as C-130Js departed here Sept. 6 in support of Overseas Contingency Operations in Southwest Asia.

In addition to the C-130Js, more than 150 Airmen from the 317th Airlift Group deployed in support of the aircraft.

The mission of the C-130J is combat airlift, which includes high-altitude, low-opening Army parachute drops, equipment drops and the transportation of troops throughout the region.

Men and women from the 317th Airlift Group have now been continuously deployed for more than 2,850 days.

The C-130J is a comprehensive update of the venerable C-130 Hercules, with new engines, flight deck and other systems.

"The J-model is a much more modern and capable aircraft than its legacy predecessors," said Lt. Gen. Robert R. Allardice, 18th Air Force commander. "It can carry more cargo, it has more fuel efficient engines and has a smaller crew complement, which translates to lower operating and support costs. Compared to older C-130s, the J-model climbs faster and higher, flies farther at a higher cruise speed and takes off and lands in a shorter distance."

During Operation Iraqi Freedom, the C-130J could complete some missions in a single day that required legacy C-130s twice as long to complete, added Allardice.

The 317 AG continues to transition to the C-130J Super Hercules ─ the most technologically advanced version of the C-130. By 2013, Dyess will have the distinction of being home to the largest C-130J fleet in the Air Force, when it receives its 28th Super Hercules aircraft.

"We can fly farther, faster and higher than ever before, and still put a load of computer batteries, water, MREs or ammunition within mere feet of a special forces unit or U.S. Army unit anywhere around the world," said Col. Dan Dagher, 317 AG commander.